Haven’t had one of these in a while, so here’s an introduction to Epica, a operatic metal band from the Netherlands. The main vocalist, Simone Simons has probably the most beautiful voice I have heard and she is definitely my favourite female singer. Here’s Mother of Light from their 2005 album Consign to Oblivion:

Here’s Cry for the Moon from their first CD:

Their general sound hasn’t changed much over the years: a beautiful operatic soprano mixed with rough growls over a excellent metal with heavy symphonic elements, but they’ve always managed to keep it fresh and interesting. Here’s Quantum Enigma from their most recent CD:

Here’s something a bit slower and softer, Feint, also from Phantom Agony:

Finally, from their live album, a metal version of Dies Irae. It’s one of the very few live albums I’ve ever felt worth purchasing: